Volunteer of the Month (May 2008)

Volunteer of the Month Named at Jefferson Elementary

Vivian Owens is a special volunteer. Not only does she advocate for students who don’t speak English as a first language, but she also inspires others to dedicate their free time helping others. At Jefferson Elementary, she volunteers with first-grade students almost daily. She helps them perfect their English skills while holding them to the highest academic expectations. Vivian sets the standard for volunteerism, and as such, she was selected as the district’s May Volunteer of the Month.

"Ms. Vivian has impacted the lives of many students in our first grade classes,” said Jefferson Teacher Lynn Graham. “She involves herself in their lives, and at times, she has become the advocate these students need to either build on an education which has not yet taken off or to stimulate the learning of an English as a Second Language student until he or she acquires enough of the English language to be successful. She makes every effort to see to it that each child she works with is getting the individualized help and support he or she needs."

As the GCS Volunteer of the Month, Vivian received a certificate of appreciation from the Board of Education and Co-Interim Superintendents Sharon Ozment and Dr. Eric Becoats. She also received a $25 gift card from American Express. Vivian’s photo will hang on a plaque at her school during the month of May, as well as at the district’s central offices. Remember to watch for the Volunteer of the Month on GCSTV 2.

To nominate a volunteer who you think goes above and beyond the call of duty, simply click on the following link: http://www.gcsnc.com/community/vom.htm

Guilford County Schools is the third largest school district in North Carolina serving more than 71,000 students at 120 schools. With approximately 10,000 employees, the district’s mission is to graduate responsible citizens who are college/work ready.

Guilford County Schools is a national leader in providing specialized schools and instructional programs designed to meet the educational needs of a culturally diverse citizenship.  For more information, visit the district’s Web site at www.gcsnc.com.